Counsel assisting Ken Fleming told the hearing the victims and two children were in the fifth of the nine rafts on the Thunder River Rapids ride, described as a "moderate" ride to simulate white water rafting.

Mr Fleming proposed splitting a formal inquest into the deaths into two sections — the first to examine exactly what happened and the response to the fatal incident, and the second to look at whether law changes were needed to prevent similar tragedies.

The construction, maintenance and modifications to the ride will also be within the inquest scope, along with Dreamworld's risk-management processes, training and staffing.

The first half of the inquest will likely be heard in June and July, with proposed dates for the second portion slated for October, November and December.

The list of witnesses to testify has not been confirmed.

The dates are yet to be formalised.

Lawyers for Ardent Leisure, Dreamworld's parent company, said they would cooperate with the inquest.

Mr Fleming said the inquest would not result in blame being laid on any parties, but acknowledged the Director of Public Prosecutions and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland could take their own legal action.

Outside court, Mr Fleming said he hoped the victims' families would get some closure from the inquest.

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